Doing a boudoir session for the first time can be nerve wracking -- this information is here to help you prepare for what to expect and how you can help the boudoir session go as smoothly and awesomely as possible! Don't be nervous -- it's going to be fantastic! :)

GROOMING! This might seem obvious, but in the hustle and bustle of preparing it can be easily forgotten. You'll want to keep in mind that you're being photographed a bit more bare than you're (probably) used to, so make sure that you do any preparation grooming ahead of time: shaving, tweezing, moisturizing, etc! I always recommend doing anything more drastic -- hair cut, waxing, facial, new outfits, etc -- with enough time to fix or exchange them if they don't work out. I also urge my clients to hold off on tanning, real or spray, unless you're 100% sure of the outcome -- things like tan lines, sunburned skin, peeling skin, and too-orange fake tans will be very obvious in photographs, and fixing them can be very time consuming (and is not included in my normal editing process), so just something to keep in mind! Your hands and feet will most likely make an appearance in at least a couple photographs -- if it's something you're concerned about, make sure your nails are freshly painted for your session!HAIR & MAKEUP! Above everything else, I recommend having your hair & makeup professionally done for your session. Not only is it the ultimate addition to an amazing day full of pampering yourself, but the pressure will be totally off of you. You'll be in the hands of a professional who is experienced in making people look and feel their best on camera, and trust me, it shows! I have several recommendations and am happy to send you their information -- just say the word! If you do feel comfortable doing your own hair & makeup, I still have a few tips for you! For hair, relaxed is generally best unless you're going for a more specific look, like a vintage/pin-up theme. Half- or fully-down hair with a gentle wave/curl is always awesome. For makeup, you want to focus on accentuating your favorite features, and don't be afraid to be a little more heavy-handed than usual... makeup tends to look less intense on camera, so it's okay to glam it up a bit! And fake eyelashes are ALWAYS welcome. ;)

OUTFITS! I generally recommend bringing enough clothing and accessories for anywhere from 2-7 looks. If you're not 100% about what you want to use, feel free to bring everything and we can look through it and plan some outfits together! Sometimes it helps to have an objective set of eyes. :) Keep in mind that you're certainly not limited to only things that fall in the typical "lingerie" category -- anything that YOU think is sexy is fair game! Also, if accessories are your thing, bring 'em along, too -- hats, scarves, gloves, jewelry, shoes, stockings/garters, or even things like musical instruments, books, anything that will make the shoot more personal and unique! Above all, I want you to feel like you are ROCKING this shoot -- bring anything you think is going to bring out your inner fierceness. :) If you'd like any ideas or inspiration, feel free to check out my Pinterest board: http://www.pinterest.com/crownofstorms/boudoir-inspiration/

WHAT TO BRING! Aside from your outfits and accessories, I always recommend bringing some extra makeup and hair items for touch-ups: concealer, powder, lip gloss or lip stick, bobbi pins, hairspray, etc! Bringing along a snack and some water, even if it's just waiting for you in the car, is never a bad idea -- boudoir shoots can be surprisingly tiring! Having some source of your own music is awesome, too -- anything that will make you feel excited and confident! Also, try not to wear anything too tight/restrictive for a few hours before the session -- things like tight pants, belts, bras, etc, can leave marks on the skin that will be visible in your photographs! It may seem silly, but bringing some champagne or vodka is never a bad idea -- I have LOTS of clients who wish they were able to take a shot or two to relax before the session started. :)

DURING THE SHOOT! At this point, you've done everything you can to prepare. RELAX and have fun! I will help you with choosing outfits, coordinating accessories and jewelry, and posing -- all I want you to do is embrace how awesome and sexy you are and just have an amazing time!

OTHER TIDBITS! If we're shooting at my studio, we have access to a bedroom and a private bathroom right next door. You'll have access to a shower, a large mirror for touch-ups, and a few basic beauty items (lotion, a blow dryer, and some simple makeup items). Parking is available in the driveway as well as along the street. If you're allergic to cats, let me know in advance and I will be sure they are out of the way when you arrive. :) If you've paid a 50% retainer for your shoot, the remaining balance will be due by the end of the session. This can be paid with cash, personal check, or credit/debit card, so come prepared! Keep in mind that while I try to keep my schedule flexible, it's possible that your shoot will need to be cut short if you're running late! If you need to get in touch with me at any time, my number is 207-807-1379 -- feel free to text or call!